Christian Science War Time Activities/Chapter 07
VII
A UNIQUE COMMITTEE
“These ought ye to have done, and not to leave the other undone.”—Luke 11:42.
A happy world in quiet action lay. Its humble tasks, its homely joys, filled each succeeding day. Sunrise and sunset, the morning lark, the evening thrush marked time, while men and women ceased their plowing for the planting, the weeding for the reaping. The hidden root, the plant, the vine and every fruit-filled tree was yielding up its increase, and strains of gratitude borne on the August breezes, hinted the oncoming harvest. So lay the world in active peace, when a flash, a peal, a thunderous roll announced the foe. Hell's stores were opened, and an anguished world convulsed.
The first faint, piteous moan touched the pitying heart, and help went out to relieve it; but the moan gave way to one great human, globe-encircling cry, and, Deo gratias, a world of love went out to meet it. Through men this quick response took arms. What could it do through women? Much. It could say to the enlisting men: “The womanhood of the world is with you; it will provide you warmth and comfort; it will bring you cheer, encouragement, and even joy.” To the widow and the fatherless it could say: “The great mother-heart of the universe embraces you; lean on it; for it will feed you, clothe you, comfort you.”
The Christian Scientists, with those of every other creed and faith, heard the call and answered, using at first the only available means. Individually they gave their services to existent relief organizations; in groups they purchased wool in quantities, knitting and teaching the use of the needles to others less proficient, made and fitted comfort bags, and distributed the results to individuals in the service. Calls for bags and knitted garments, however, steadily increased, and while they were met with rapidly increasing labor, the lack of an organized clearing house was keenly felt. There seemed to be one clear, insistent call:
| “ | Make channels for the streams of love, |
| Where they may broadly run; | |
| And love has overflowing streams | |
| To fill them ev'ry one.” |
The call was heard, plans quickly developed, and through the courtesy of the Board of Directors, headquarters were opened in the house owned by the church, at 191 Huntington Avenue, Boston. Here yarn was sold, model garments exhibited, and all knitted wear received and distributed. Even this step toward systematization added a stimulus to individual efforts. For example, one woman turned her house into a workshop for several days, for the making of the first twenty sweater vests, the garment that “fitted so well,” was “so soft and warm,” and had “such a nice feeling.”
It was during this period that the Halifax disaster occurred, and the value of a well-constructed organization, vitalized with love and intelligence, was manifested. The response of the Scientists to their brothers' needs was almost overwhelming; and in an incredibly short time the donated garments, both old and new, were assorted and shipped, bringing forth from one of the Canadian authorities the statement that never had he seen a more practical manifestation of genuine Christianity.
The joy of self-forgetfulness, of seeking one's own in another's good, put a new value upon the “odd moments,” and quickened the click of the needles. Knitted garments came in, in ever increasing numbers and varieties. Yet, though human need was daily increasing, and the stream of warmth and comfort necessary to meet it was daily deepening and broadening, suddenly every facility for larger giving was shut off. The locks were closed, as it were, and the stream held up without an outlet. What was the matter? What was lacking? What the one thing needful? Prayer for enlightenment was answered: ours was “a deed without a name.” If we were acting “in His name” we could say so. Quickly appeared the little label “Comforts Forwarding Committee. Christian Scientists.” The locks swung open at its touch, and the liberated stream poured out uninterruptedly to the end. The question of knitting was settled, but other needs were now arising. What of the soft, warm garments and other accessories so necessary to the comfort of the men in the hospitals and resting camps? What, too, of the refugees? “I was . . . naked, and ye clothed me.” A moment saved is a moment earned, and a needed, kindly deed no waste. Moreover, what messages of love, of truth, could go forth with every garment. “The divinity of the Christ was made manifest in the humanity of Jesus” ( Science and Health, page 25); the tender love of the Church of Christ, Scientist, could now declare itself in a new, tender and practical way to all mankind. The universal language is its own interpreter. The decision was quickly reached, the last doubt silenced, and every woman was free to express in some measure her sympathy.
Every great movement lies first in embryo, in an expanding area of human consciousness, until its necessity find utterance through someone fitted to express it. Such an one invited to her home ten other Scientists, each making there a sample garment which she took to her own home, together with material for one hundred and ten similar garments. Her home became the meeting-place for another unit of ten, of which she was the captain, each of whom took her garment, together with material for ten more, to her home, where she became the captain of still another unit. In this simple way, quietly, unostentatiously, one thousand one hundred and ten new garments could be turned out each week; and as the more expensive material of one week was offset by a simpler one the next, the weekly individual payment of twenty-five cents covered, in the beginning, the cost of production.
Widening activities necessitated larger headquarters, and the ground floor and basement at 328 Boylston Street were rented. This was a thrilling moment for the women. Right in the midst of the city's business interests, on an attractive corner of an attractive street, they were to open a place which in every detail should manifest to the world just how Christian Science is operative in human affairs. Still mindful of the object for which they were working, they could make the scene of their activities a gladsome spot to the heavily burdened business men, to the sobered women shoppers, to the workers in other relief organizations and even to the students, all of whom were passing it in hundreds every day.
To begin with, the windows must be indicative of the spirit within. They must tell the passer-by not, primarily, what garments were being fashioned, but what qualities of thought were multiplying for the encouragement of the soldier and the solace of the refugee. They must talk of life itself, speak forth comfort, warmth and affluence. One window, lined with yellow, displaying every kind of knitted wear in blue, gray and khaki, and piled up high with bales of wool, was in itself an invitation to the uniformed men to bask in its sunshine; and when one side was hung with gay colored comfort bags, the contents—a veritable Christmas tree—spilled out in front of them, while on the other side were sewing kits, so complete yet so compact, was it any wonder that the blue and khaki boys gathered there to smile, and felt that there would be some moments of almost play, while defending the flags that crowned the window?
Perhaps it was that pretty pink bag in the corner, flaunting its abundance of gay roses, that called forth from the recipient this jolly letter:
“Dear Friend Someone: I was very much pleased to get a fine comfort kit from you yesterday. It certainly had the comforts. A little bit of a bag of buttons, that was really what I most needed. Oh, there were lots of buttons in it, but it looked so tiny and stuffy I had to laugh. . . . The pins, the thread, the kerchiefs, soap, both shaving and hand, talcum powder, laces, oh, I can't think what all was there. And everything just fits me. I know I won't need any more shaving soap for a long time, for my beard doesn't grow fast. You know we're not any of us very old men. I never think how old I am; just keep feeling glad at how young I feel. Perhaps my feelings are the only thing that doesn't belong to Uncle Sam, yet I feel contented, like my work, and study and try to get ahead. Isn't that the way to do? Don't you admire the paragraphing in this note? I think it's fine. But you know we mustn't waste even paper. Will someone waste a post card on me, or—never mind, I'm satisfied with what I have. Thanks a whole lot.”
Of course if you were a man in the service you peeked through the window to see what was going on beyond it; and you caught a glimpse of smiling women behind a counter, selling yarn and yarn and still more yarn to the women in front. Then you couldn't help walking in, for somehow everything seemed to talk to you of the things you wanted said, and a warm welcome was sung into your very soul. On entering, you found a bunch of boys trying on sweaters and helmets and wristers, expressing their desires like little children in a toy shop, and receiving them without stint; even, as one boy exclaimed, without being asked what church they belonged to. If you looked beyond that pile of knitted wear which seemed to envelop you, your eyes rested upon a group of young girls who belonged to no unit, but who spent their spare moments making and filling comfort bags, sewing on labels, etc.; and then your gaze was drawn irresistibly over the intervening space, filled with desks for the clerical part of the movement, to a platform where the knitting machines were running to full capacity, and socks, those “Christian Science socks,” as the boys called them, because they were “so soft,” and “didn't shrink,” were issuing in hundreds.
But not all of you were men; some of you were women, and therefore after looking over the knitted wear to “get ideas,” you stepped to the window beyond; and after exclaiming over the Carbone vase with its pussy willows, or wondering how wild ferns and violets and lady's-slippers happened to grow in a window, you settled down to an exhaustive survey of the attractive garments before you. What a layette,—with its thirty-six pieces, so very white, so sensible, so complete! What unwelcome baby, what stricken mother, would be comforted and encouraged by that? Those little shirts, made so deftly from adults' garments that one hardly suspected their origin; those warm yet dainty bootees in pink and white and blue; the baby bonnets crocheted of softest wool; surely it was not hard routine, but warm, inspired love that fashioned these. The baby blankets and little jackets lay just beyond, but your practical mind was already contemplating the garments on the right, complete outfits for both winter and summer wear, for girls from two to fourteen years of age; the undergarments all so new and strong and durable; the dresses simple in design and serviceable. A belt, a pocket, a bit of braid or embroidery, however, lifted them into the realm of the custom-made, and gave evidence of the loving thought of the makers.
Then, too, there were outfits for boys between the ages of six and twelve; blouses that looked a bit expensive for the times, because there was nothing to reveal the fact that they had been made from some man's choicest shirts which had become worn at the neck. How diminutive, too, were those little trousers, especially when one thought of the castaway garments from which they were cut. But they were not all “made-overs.” Those smart suits of blue denim, for instance; who could have designed them? And, oh, those policemen's and firemen's uniforms, children's size, made just to send a thrill through the hearts of the little boys who should wear them! You were wondering why there was such a lack of color, as your eyes fell upon a pile of black sateen ties for the girls, all so carefully made, so neatly pressed and folded, and for a moment you thought only of mourning. Upon inquiry, however, you learned that the children in France had always worn that kind; that bright colors, especially red, were to them the insignia of the devil, and therefore to be avoided. You couldn't wait to look at the garments for older girls (there were none for older boys—they were all in uniform) and for the mothers; you only glanced at the pajamas and the gray and pink day shirts for the men in the hospitals. You, too, must get behind that attractive window, to see what was going on inside. Being a woman, you instantly exclaimed, “What order; what neatness!” There were samples of every garment being made, with women to tell you all about them. Cut garments, all in their proper places, stood ready to be sold to the units. One shelf made you think of those wonderful gardens at Bellaggio, all roses and wistaria and azaleas, and you couldn't think what it contained, until the fascinating cretonnes were shaken out before you, to make your choice for comfort bags. Beyond, a unit was holding its weekly meeting, and fingers were flying, machines singing, while women were discussing, and showing each other, the quickest and neatest way to finish a collar or put in a sleeve.
“Oh, you are so clean here, so orderly,” exclaimed the head of another relief organization. “How do you do it?”
“You seem to be able to count upon your workers. Some days we have seventy-five, and some days only three,” was the comment of the manager of a neighboring committee.
“Yes, we are well organized, our work is systematized, and the true Christian Scientist means to fulfill his responsibilities.”
It was that cheerful response to the call for help that placed in the basement a splendid corps of workers, where all garments, both new and secondhand, were assorted and packed in great cases for shipping. It was not the easiest part of the work, or the most decorative, but the same neatness and exactness were demanded; and the murmur of happy voices punctuated with occasional ripples of laughter, which reached the workers on the floor above, gave evidence of the joy below. What a happy sense of cooperation it all gave rise to.
This cooperation, however, was not limited to Greater Boston. Hardly had the work there taken definite form, before Scientists all over the country, from ocean to ocean, and from Hawaii and the Canal Zone to Alaska, expressed a desire to share in it, and were gladly hailed as allies. One group after another joined the happy throng, until there were seven hundred and eighty-nine. There was no stereotyped method of organization. The units varied in size, some meeting in private houses, while others preferred public workrooms. In some of the larger cities a number of such rooms were opened, in different localities, all uniting in general headquarters for receiving and distributing the garments. Varying methods were employed, too, for the raising of funds, some preferring per capita assessments, others depending upon voluntary contributions. Nor was the work confined to the regulation garments. Each committee used its ingenuity in supplying the unexpected. One, for instance, made some rag dolls, “pretty enough to bring a ray of joy to the heart of the most saddened child,” for the little ones in France and Belgium, and received in return the following letter:
“To the Secretary of the Comforts Forwarding Committee: Thank you so much for the darling rag dolls; they will bring joy to many little French kiddies on Christmas morning, when they will know that the good American Santa Claus sent his message of love.
“Tell all of your workers that they are doing an immense amount of good by making these toys for the children of stricken France. We must not forget that it is as important to support the morale of the civilians and the soldiers, as to care for their physical needs. The little children must have toys, as the soldiers must have letters, to soothe a present pain, and to reveal a future of hope.
“We must, in so far as it is possible, dispel from the minds of the children of France, the horror and suffering of this war, for France's great hope lies in her little ones.
“On behalf of our Committee, and on behalf of the children of France, I thank you and all who have so generously helped in the making of this precious gift.
“I am, very truly yours,”
(Signed by the Secretary, American Fund for French Wounded.)
One Committee gave to a base hospital unit, leaving for Italy, thirty beautiful rag rugs for their own use, besides supplying each of the two hundred men with a good pocket knife, in a leather case, each bearing the name of the Committee in gold.
One day the window at the headquarters in Boston assumed an entirely new aspect. From a distance it looked like flag day, but closer inspection revealed the most wonderful collection of picture books, made by children for their little friends on the other side. Only childhood's genuine humor, its love of color, of the mysterious, could have made such a splendid choice of pictures; and only unstudied art could have arranged them so artistically. It was not strange that a passer-by stepped in to see if any could be bought.
Several of the committees exercised their ingenuity in making slumber robes. The soft gray and white ones, brightened by a bit of pink or blue, plainly were for the little tots. Then came larger ones, made of tailors' samples and warmly lined, for the comfort of the men in the hospitals. Sometimes they contained surprise pockets, with a cheering word tucked in for the man who was clever enough to find it. One veritable novelty was a slumber robe made of pennants—an inexhaustible source of amusement to the boys in one of the convalescent hospitals. What trip could one not take traveling under so many flags! So great was the demand for this robe in the hospital that it was generally engaged in advance for the following day, and to keep it only half of one's allotted time and then pass it on to another, was plainly one of the sacrifices of the war.
Two demands only were made of every unit: that the staple garments conform to the rules sent out from headquarters, rules which had been obtained from those cognizant of the methods and customs in the various countries to which the clothes were to be sent; and that all work press toward perfection. At times there came the temptation to show our sisters across the seas a more comely way of dressing themselves, especially in these days of silhouettes, to say nothing of a simpler way to dress their pillows. Their pillow-cases were far too complicated for the practical American mind. It was a little difficult, too, always to remember that the French and British hospitals had never agreed as to whether hospital garments should be made with the seams inside or out. However, one fact was clearly recognized, that love meets the other man's need as it is, and not as someone thinks it ought to be. Meanwhile the thousands of sewers were gradually giving up their fixed habits, practicing patience by cheerfully ripping and sewing a second time, or even a third, if necessary to the sending out of a model garment; and learning to finish their small, even stitches with thread securely fastened. It was this effort to do their best which resulted in the query from another relief organization handling their goods:
“Are all your workers trained sewers?”
“No.”
“Then how do you account for your work being so exceptional? I had always thought that Christian Science was an idealistic religion.”
“So it is,—a practical idealism; a religion which governs every act of our lives even to the sewing on of buttons. There is a perfect standard of sewing, and Christian Scientists having that before them when making these garments, do all to the glory of God.”
Yes, to the glory of God, to the glory of One whose standard is perfection, but whose infinitude admits of variety of expression. Love paints the petals, but never two exactly alike; and it was the same love that tipped the “Christian Science socks” with so many pretty bits of color, that gave individual designs to scarfs, and thought out numberless attractive ways of ornamenting sweaters, even to the weaving of U. S. A. across the front. It was the same love that slipped a pretty hair ribbon, or daintily bordered handkerchief into the pocket of a child's dress; that made all the infant clothes, and thousands of handkerchiefs for the men, by hand, in order to avoid the harshness of machine work.
Unpacking the cases of goods that came in daily certainly had its joys and its surprises, for the whole field felt the spirit of the work, with results that expressed not deadening labor, but living activity. And the spirit which pervaded the groups reached even the units of one—individuals living in obscure little hamlets. Cut materials were mailed to them, and the finished garments returned in the same way. Thus space was annihilated, and the most isolated Christian Scientist felt only her unity with the whole cause.
Among the many interesting contributions was that of some Alaskan Indians, living only sixty-five miles from the Arctic Circle, from a friend of whom came the following letter:
“Near us across the river Yukon is a small mining camp and a native village. As the Indian women were anxious to help I suggested that they make little moccasins, as leather is scarce and shoes expensive. Most of us wear moccasins here in winter, and many wear them all summer; and the little people, both whites and natives, wear them. So the moccasins, made from their very firmest skins, were sent in for me to forward, sixteen pairs in all. This was an act of love and generosity that I must mention, as most of these women have babies of their own and are extremely busy, and the articles made from their moose skins and sold to the whites, constitute a big part of their living. Nettie Mayo Bergman, for instance, had a tiny baby, another only a year old, yet she donated two pairs for some stricken little ones. Old Grandma Pitka, who speaks no English, and who takes care of a paralytic husband and a little grandson, sent me word that no one had asked her to make moccasins, but she wanted to help if it was not too late. So her donation is with the others.
“Always the Indians have had things given to them and done for them, and I never saw them so happy as they are now, learning that they can help someone else.”
With the moccasins came a group picture of the women and children who had made them. After both had been exhibited in the window of the Boston headquarters, the moccasins were carefully sewed into a box and forwarded, with the photograph, to France.
The spontaneity of the whole field again necessitated larger headquarters in Boston. The sales department, together with the knitting machines, moved to 460 Boylston Street, while one whole floor of a large automobile building on Beacon Street became the wholesale house of supply, and the scene of great activity. Despite the prevailing scarcity of wool, sufficient quantities were obtained by the Comforts Forwarding Committee to supply not only the workers in the immediate vicinity, but to answer the calls from all over the field. Blankets for convalescent robes, as handsome as market ever produced, were purchased, and sold to the various units to be made. Countless bolts of khaki eider down were bought for the making of sweater vests, “the finest garment ever put out by any organization,” according to some of the army officers. Indeed the quantity of materials required often necessitated passing over the wholesale dealer and going direct to the manufacturer. Turkish toweling for face cloths and towels, the finest of cheesecloth for handkerchiefs, blue and khaki denim for dresses and boys' suits, were piled high. Ten thousand dollars' worth of outing flannel was bought at one time, to insure both quantity and quality at a time when the market seemed doubtful. The pink and blue made garments for the children, the lavender and white striped went into nightshirts for the boys, while the gray was used for the women. Despite the demand for all materials, the sense of lack was never felt here. On the contrary there was such a prevailing sense of abundance that the feeling became almost universal that what anybody wanted could be found at the Christian Science headquarters. That the branch groups all over the country were making a similar demonstration of supply was evidenced by the quantity of garments turned in.
Hardly could equal space be the scene of more varied activities than the workroom on Beacon Street. Through the courtesy of the Hood Rubber Company, the larger garments were cut by machinery; but the parts were assembled here—a work requiring strength, speed and accuracy, and admitting of little friendly chat. The smaller garments were cut here by hand, and so carefully that, after skirts for girls were cut, the pieces left were made into children's nightgowns. The remnants from these went first into baby jackets, then hoods and finally bootees. Scraps too small to cover a baby's foot, were snipped for filling pillows—a work given over, in some cities, to the Sunday school children that they, too, might have a special part in forwarding comforts for our boys.
Around one large table sat a group of women sewing on labels; those around the table in the corner were filling comfort bags, and a pleasant time they were having too. Near them could be seen a group of women whose quizzical expressions showed at once that they were looking over the secondhand garments that had been sent in, endeavoring to make sure that each was in perfect repair, and placed where it would be sent to the country most needing it. Another table was covered with such attractive, harmonious colors, one wondered what it was going to contribute to the great cause, until closer inspection revealed that the pieces left from the convalescent robes were being converted into splendid blankets for the hospitals. That activity was too fascinating to be called work. One almost wished it were possible to go with each blanket to see what joy it carried to the boys needing the joy. What could those women be doing, with their arms going steadily round and round? Winding thread for the sewing kits. Another attractive table, well worth a call, was covered with slippers, in various stages of making; sometimes matching the convalescent robes; sometimes made of velours, bound and lined with contrasting colors to satisfy the love of the artistic.
In the midst of these more quiet activities, the big freight elevator announced the arrival of more cases.
“What has California sent this time?”
“This one is from Ohio; do open it at once.”
“Have you seen the dresses that came yesterday from Minnesota?”
“No, but I was here Tuesday and saw the boys' outfits that Michigan sent in.”
No longer was there any “here” and “there.” Every group seemed just across the hall, and the various labels bearing the names of the cities they represented were simply greetings from the various members of the family. Love unifies, and cooperation is the manifestation of love. Healings of estrangement were rapidly being consummated through this united work for their far-away brothers and their sisters. That the blessing of this sense of unity fell not only upon the workers themselves, but was felt by the recipients of the garments, is shown by the following letters:
“Dear Friends: Upon examining my outfit, recently received from the Comforts Forwarding Committee, Christian Scientists, Boston, I was surprised to find that it contained articles furnished by workers in each of the following places: Boston, Massachusetts; Lima, Ohio; Minneapolis, Minnesota; St. Louis, Missouri; Denver, Colorado; Cedar Rapids, Iowa.
“This seemed such a striking tribute to the universal
nature of the work being done, as well as to the spirit of
cooperation which was uniting the workers, that I felt
compelled to send a note of thanks to each of those who had
contributed, and to assure them that each one who receives
the benefit of this work is being inspired in the duty of
‘making his own gift a higher tribute to the Most High’"
(Science and Health, page 541).
“A few days ago I received a Comfort Package from your Committee. It is useless for me to attempt to express in writing, or by any other means, my feelings upon opening this package and seeing its contents,—so many things useful to a soldier.
“I can tell you, though, that since the day it came, a new feeling in regard to going ‘over the top’ has come over me. The drills are easier, the hikes are easier, and I am much more contented to take the little knocks and bumps that a fellow has to put up with in the course of training, and which are just the things that make a man discouraged unless someone shows some interest in his welfare and comfort.
“In a short time, no one knows how soon, I expect to be in France. The quicker the better, for I am very anxious; and as I go, and while I am there, I shall make use of the wonderful things which you good people have sent me. I can assure you that as I go ‘over the top’ my heart will be full of pride, and thankful to God, that I am of, and fighting for, a nation made up of such great and wonderfully good people.
“I believe that for you good people to realize to the full extent the greatness of the work you are doing, and the good that will come of it, both during and after this war, is im- possible; but we soldiers do, and you can rest assured that we wont forget you.
“All the lads in my company having seen my package want me to say ‘Hello’ and ‘Good luck’ to you all.
“With the most sincere thanks.”
There were two phases of the Comforts Forwarding work, quite distinct although indissolubly connected: the making and assembling of the garments, and their distribution. Several methods for giving out the garments were used. Quite a proportion of the knitted wear went directly from the various Committees to the individual soldiers and sailors applying for it. This personal contact was a happy part of the activity to the Committees and the recipients. The men already interested in Christian Science enjoyed their visits to the various Committee rooms; for the love expressed there helped them to feel that the whole body of Scientists stood closely behind them. A surprise, a wholly new experience, awaited, however, those who had never before come in immediate contact with Christian Science. Men had only to go to a Comforts Forwarding Room to find quickly the warm garments they so much needed. Neither creed, color nor nationality interfered, if they were wearing the uniform of the United States. This made no slight impression upon the men. To go from the freedom of one's own fireside, from the solicitous care of parents or wife, to the discipline and impersonal status of military life, was often the first battle to be won. As one boy expressed it, “One's feelings are the only thing that doesn't belong to Uncle Sam,” and those feelings were consequently the more sensitive, the more easily hurt, the more easily gladdened. To go, therefore, where a man was asked only his name and place in the service, where he was greeted as a personal friend, where he could try on garments and make his own selection; where the word of encouragement, and even of confidence, was never lacking, does one believe that one of those boys will ever forget the experience?
It was a sailor boy who stood, one Saturday morning, reading the sign, “Comforts Forwarding Committee.” At first it seemed to mean nothing to him; but surely, if slowly, its promise and appeal worked its way through the shell-shocked, gassed and horror-stricken mind, to the inner consciousness, where it met a response. He crossed the street, opened the door and walked in. The steady rays of unchanging love surrounded him. Little by little his petrified thought relaxed; little by little, stuttering, gasping, sighing, his story came forth; and when the effort to speak became too great, he finished the tale in writing. After more than a year of service in the army “over there,” after going over the top and experiencing the full import of those words, what was left of the once stalwart lad had been sent back to his Texas home. But no home awaited him. His widowed mother, having married again, had closed her heart and her house to the shattered hero. Turned from her door, he came to Uncle Sam, to offer such service as he could then render in the merchant marine.
Seated in a sheltered corner of the Comforts Forwarding Room, the homeless one was gently led to relax, and confidently rest in the mother love there shown him. Was there no church to help him?
“Oh, mercy, no, I never went to church; but my people are Protestants.”
“How did you happen to come in here?”
“I don't know. I was across the street.”
“I know; it was because we can help you.”
“That is impossible. (A sigh.) I am so lonesome.”
“If you stay in this city we will give you something to do.”
“I wish I could do something for you.”
The conversation closed with the gift of a Sentinel, a pamphlet and an invitation to come again Monday morning.
At nine o'clock there stood the boy, happy, whistling.
“I went to your church yesterday; ain't it fine!”
No mention of the church had hitherto been made to him, but he had found a notice of it in the Sentinel, and even the pouring rain could not keep him from its doors. His happy visits to the Comforts Forwarding Rooms continued, until his ship put out to sea; and it was a very different boy who said, “Good-bye; I shall come to see you on my return.”
One day a little Italian woman appeared at a distributing headquarters. “My boy in France; he cold; he say boys all around him nice and warm; they tell him this place; he say don't go any other place, come here and get him nice things, too.”
In her eager, trembling hand was the loved son's letter. “Leave it with us that we may have his address, and we will see that he gets all that he wants.”
Will that mother ever forget?
Two happy, but poorly clad, sailors walked confidently in. Could they have something to keep them warm? Of course they could; all they needed. Who had sent them there? The policeman at the corner of First and Second Streets; he said that was the place to go to.
A little later it was a dear young boy in khaki who entered. “I have a brother in France; I have just received a letter from him. He says he got his sweater here, and tells me to come here for mine, and to be sure to get a pamphlet. Perhaps you wouldn't give me these things if you knew. This isn't our religion; we're not saying much about it to the folks at home.”
One cheerful summer morning the sun on the gilded sign, and the open door, brought in a crazed, nigh insane man.
“What comfort can you give me? Tell me that! My first son was killed, and now my second is dead, too. Already I've had six drinks of whiskey. What comfort can you give me?”
Instantly every woman present remembered that Life is eternal, as one of them said.
“How do you know it?” he inquired.
“Because God is Life.”
“How do you know that?”
“We have proven it.”
“Say it again.”
“God is Life, and therefore Life is eternal.”
A moment's stillness, a silent prayer, a few more words of comfort, and a quiet, thoughtful man went out upon the street with the truth for his companion.
The address of a Comforts Forwarding Committee was left by a War Relief Worker at the Custom House, together with the assurance that any needy one would there find help. The interested yeowoman put the card on file. Several months later a young enlisted seaman told her his story. He had been ordered for duty on one of the Canadian drifters, so-called—a fleet of patrol boats, dirty, cramped, repelling. He would be stationed in icy waters for six months. His aunt had expected to meet him with a package from the Red Cross, but had been unable to get a sweater or other articles, and he must sail without them. With joy the yeowoman recalled the card on file, and the boy appeared without delay at the distributing rooms. After a brief but heart-to-heart talk with the woman in charge, the boy went out, carrying with him not only a good supply of knitted wear, but also an illuminating pamphlet. The following day three of his comrades appeared, asking, first of all, for pamphlets, and specifying that they be different from the one given yesterday's boy. This group was quickly followed by another, until more than thirty of the officers and men, all of them fellows of the finer type but most unhappily placed, were supplied with all the physical and mental comforts the Committee had to offer. Expressions of true appreciation came later from the yeowoman and the boys; but the greatest gratitude was felt by the Scientists themselves; not only were they supplied with garments that it was a pleasure to give away, but of far greater import was the fact that the Comforter had come, the Comforter that would lead these boys into the truth of whatever situation awaited them.
How true were the words of a big, uncouth enlisted lad, who, upon leaving the Comforts Forwarding Rooms, said: “There are some things that money cannot pay for; this is one of the times. I haven't much, and when I get in the army I shall probably have less, but I want to leave this,” and he laid down two dollars as his offering.
Another boy, wishing to pay for a sweater, was told it was a gift.
“But,” he said, “things cost.”
“These are given.”
“But they cost something.”
“I cannot take anything for them.”
“Well, if I leave something on the table you can't say anything;” and suddenly dropping a five dollar bill, he vanished through the door.
Garfield once said that whenever he saw a young boy he felt like taking off his hat to him, because he never knew what might be buttoned up under his coat. How many feel that way today. The boy has made for himself a new place in history, and perhaps, too, in the hearts of all mankind.
Another source of distribution was, as has already been mentioned, through other relief organizations, and for this opportunity of showing to those who hitherto had known nothing of us, or were, perhaps, antagonistic, what our religion really teaches us to do and to be, we have every reason to be grateful. How many prejudices were broken down, how many bitter feelings sweetened, how much of ignorance dissolved and replaced by intelligent, sympathetic understanding, we shall never know. Often and often came the assurance that a wholly new concept of Christian Science was being formed.
It is the splendid work of the Minute Man Committee of the Sons of the American Revolution to stand at the point of readiness to render any needed help. No avoidable delays are incident to its charity. When the Halifax disaster occurred, the Minute Man Committee was electric in its response; when the soldiers at a Massachusetts training camp were ordered to march before being supplied by the Government with suitable shoes, it was the Minute Man Committee that provided them. The spirit of this organization was the spirit of the Christian Scientists, and therefore it was a pleasure to the Comforts Forwarding Committee to respond many times to calls for assistance from the brother organization. The following letter is self-explanatory:
"At the meeting of the Board of Managers of the Massachusetts Society of the Sons of the American Revolution held on Wednesday, May 1, 1918, the following vote was passed:
“ ‘Voted: that the thanks of the Society be and the same are hereby extended to the Christian Science Church of Boston, Massachusetts, for their very generous assistance in the contribution of money and goods to the work of the 1917 Minute Man Committee during the past year.’
“A formal review in detail of your assistance was made to the Board, and the expressions of appreciation were so hearty for your generosity that no formal vote can express the sentiment of the Board extended to you. I beg leave, therefore, to add the expression hereby extended in addition to the formal action of the Board.
“Very truly yours,”
(Signed by the Secretary.)
One case of goods, sent out from the rooms in Boston but representing many parts of the field, called forth the following remarks between the head of the organization receiving them, and an assistant:
“Comforts Forwarding Committee—what a symbolic name!”
“Who are they?”
“The Christian Scientists; and their garments are so well made, so carefully pressed and so exactly folded and packed, they are a comfort to the first person who handles them, and the comfort is forwarded.”
“Well, I shall never again allow anyone in my presence to say a single word against them.”
Before disbanding, this was practically the attitude of every organization handling the work. Generosity, bigness of conception, responsibility, reliability became indissolubly connected with the Scientists as a body, in the minds of other war workers. Nor was this all; opportunities for doing little kindnesses for other organizations; helping them fill some order too large for their unaided accomplishment; assisting in the establishment of some organization just struggling into existence, by a loan, a gift, or a friendly word of encouragement, became a recognized function. Yes, the Christian Scientists have given added proof that theirs is a religion of love in the little as well as the big things, and they have made friends, not in propriæ personæ, but as Scientists.
A third important method of distribution was in response to the calls that came direct from the camps, hospitals, embarkation ports, and even the craft about to sail. The Massachusetts War Relief Committee bulletin of July 18, 1918, contains this report:
“A supply sergeant of a company which was to leave for France in a few days came to one of our Camp Welfare Workers in much distress, because he had found that the Red Cross supplies, distributed through the Camp Quartermaster, had run short and he was in pressing need of a large number of sweaters and socks. Our Worker telephoned to the Comforts Forwarding Committee (Christian Scientists), Boston, and the next day a huge box containing the required fifty sweaters and seventy-five pairs of socks arrived, and was delivered, to the great amazement of the supply sergeant. Needless to say he was very grateful. All the men who have received them speak of the superior quality and softness of the ‘Christian Science socks.’ ”
This was an activity in which many of the Committees participated, particularly in those cities near which such camps were located. Thus the Comforts Forwarding Rooms throughout the country formed a chain of supply houses, or “happiness factories,” as one newspaper called them. The combined material history of what those Committees accomplished will never be written, but the spirit of the work, the quickened love, and the softened, sweetened thought when the note of appreciation came from the recipients, have made their ineffaceable imprint upon the consciousness of every worker. If each member of a Committee has thus profited by the experience, who can estimate its value to the entire Christian Science organization in the community, and therefore to the Christian Science cause as a whole?
One day sixty-five boys were fitted out by a local Committee. We quote from the report:
“One of the boys, whose father is a well-known ex-minister and whose mother is a prominent club woman here, made this statement to his parents: ‘Father, you and mother could buy me all that I need; but there is not money enough in this city to buy the love that was expressed in those rooms today.’ Both the father and the mother had previously been opposed to Christian Science, yet the father called upon the Committee the following Monday morning to give us this message, and his acknowledgment of the work done here shows that much more is being accomplished than merely the giving out of knitted garments.”
It was the pleasure of one Committee to provide a neighboring hospital with well-filled comfort bags, made of red, white and blue sateen. At the Thanksgiving dinner they formed the principal table decoration, one being placed at each plate.
It was in another hospital, supplied with comfort bags, that a boy in the tubercular ward said, “We sure need a little brightness in here, and these bags are so bright and pretty.”
Knitted garments, bags, etc., for two hundred men were placed in the care of the chaplain on a ship, to be distributed by him on Christmas day, when the men would be well at sea.
From a southern camp came the following letter:
“Mesdames: I have been so very busy in these last two weeks that until this time I haven't had an opportunity to thank you for that very wonderful kit you sent me. You cannot know what that sweater has meant and will mean during the winter months here. The nights, even at this time of year, have been very cold. And I am using every other thing you sent me—in fact the first button I've had on my clothes, once they are off, can be accredited to the influence of that little sewing kit.
“I have a younger brother who hasn't the nerve to ask for anything in this world except his breakfast, and he's usually hungry—but he's been wondering if you would consider sending him something in the line of what you sent me—especially those warm socks and a sweater. He's a private and does much guard work, so that the nights catch him colder than me. I'll thank you and he will too.
“Yours is a wonderful work, and the boys all love you for it. I'm coming over to thank you in person when this thing is finished.”
From the captain of a ship came this cheering report:
“I wish to express my appreciation of the gift of a lovely comforter which was left on board by the Camp Welfare Worker.
“The Comforts Forwarding Committee have supplied the officers and men of the ‘Bridge’ repeatedly with articles of this design, in addition to helmets, sweaters, knitted socks, and other garments that have added greatly to our comfort and efficiency. The kind thoughts that have come with these gifts have been of particular value to us and we have felt from the first that our ship is a good deal of a Science ship.”
From a lieutenant on another ship:
“I wish also to assure you of the appreciation on the part of all hands of the work which the Christian Science Comforts Committee has been doing. At the instance of a brother officer, the officers and crew of this ship have been the recipients of several hundred sweaters, helmets, wristlets, socks, etc., which were sorely needed, how much so none who have not done winter duty in the fleet, can have the slightest conception. Also I am more than persuaded that the Christian Science pamphlets accompanying the various articles have sown the seed of truth much more widely and deeply than might at first be supposed.”
From the Roanoke comes this report:
“Dear Friends: Now that the Roanoke is about to start on its mission, I wish to express my gratitude and the appreciation of the officers and crew for the many good things which you and the other Committees have done for the happiness and comfort of our ship. We gave out the knitted goods to the crew on Saturday, and the boys said that they have never had such fine sweaters and socks as those furnished through your Committees. In my position as one of the censors, I have read with a great deal of interest and pleasure the kind expressions toward Christian Science and Christian Scientists which they have made in writing home to their relatives and friends.”
It is to a southern camp that we are indebted for the following letter:
“No mention of the activities would be complete without tribute to the dear ladies who have made the boys so many knitted goods and comforts. Oh, if they could only see the happiness these things brought to the boys, their many hours of work would surely seem to be repaid. How often have I wished that some of you could hear the gratitude the boys have expressed for these things. How they were touched by the quality of the things. Just like Mother would have wanted to give them. And how gently they would handle the things. It seemed to bring them that touch of mother love that they craved. Oh, but I am glad that those articles were made without thought of cost and with but one thought and that was love. And the boys understood, and the message the comforts carried in their gentleness woke many a boy to a desire for higher and finer things than he knew before, and led him to learn the religion of love. We never can guess the good these comforts have done, for they were sent out with a sustaining thought that led and comforted.”
From a Camp Worker:
“We received 313 sweaters, 536 pairs of wristers, 461 helmets, 500 pairs of socks, and 36 scarfs. . . . The issue of these comforts broke down all prejudice against Christian Science and has opened the way for our Committee. In fact, just to hear the name Christian Science brings words of gratitude from every man and opens all doors to us.”
The following letter from a hospital worker might have been addressed to the field in general:
“The Comforts Forwarding Committee has already supplied us with over two hundred of its sweater vests, and is giving us more each week. These vests have been received with eagerness and appreciation by the men, who have said repeatedly: ‘This is the best gift we could have. Whoever saw anything so fine.’ A frequent exclamation is, ‘Do tell the ladies who make them that we sure are grateful.’
“The labels on the garments, telling in what city they were made, have served to bring much brightness. Shouts such as: ‘A lady in Houston, Texas, made mine for me'; ‘A lady in Los Angeles made mine’; ‘Mine came from a lady in Chicago,’ and so on, filled the rooms one day as we were distributing these garments.
“More than two hundred and twenty-five men, twenty-seven medical officers, including a colonel and a major, seven women nurses and five reconstruction workers are now wearing these garments.
“Since serving as a War Relief Worker, I have appreciated more deeply than before, the loving ministry that is being accomplished by the Forwarding Committee. Its work has not been confined merely to caring for human needs, for large numbers of men who have received the ‘comforts’ have earnestly inquired about the spiritual teaching of Christian Science, often saying, ‘I want to know more about God.’ To such our literature has been given, and later these boys have asked for the textbook and for treatment. With deep thankfulness I have observed that the sweater vests, blanket wrappers, and afghans which have been given to me to dis- tribute have brought much more than human warmth to our noble lads, for they have had part in leading the thoughts of these boys upward to the love of God, there to feel the healing touch of Truth.”
In addition to the letters from officers and War Relief Workers, many were received from individuals, whose gratitude compelled expression. The following excerpt bore four signatures.
“We, the undersigned, do hereby express to you our grateful and heartfelt appreciation of the gracious favors and gifts so recently bestowed on and sent to us. And when our comfort is enhanced by the wearing of the several articles, we shall think much and many times of the loving and useful service being rendered our Cause and the boys upholding that Cause, by the Christian Scientists of the United States of America; for such unselfish and sincere efforts can only tend to bring to us the more speedily a just and lasting peace achieved by a decisive victory.”
“Dear Friends: The two outfits which you sent to my brother and me arrived Saturday. Words are inadequate when it comes to expressing our gratitude for your goodness and kindness. From the bottom of our hearts we thank you.
“My brother is a very quiet boy and does not say much, so I am taking this opportunity to speak for both of us. Even if he does not say much, he appreciates the thoughtfulness and graciousness of good friends very keenly.
“This verbal response is a feeble acknowledgment of your gift, but to attest my feeling, I promise you that I shall make a constant and earnest endeavor to know the truth, and do the will of God, and help others to do likewise. Accept our thanks, our love and our best wishes.”
“Your package of comforts has arrived, and filled a much needed want. If the various people who knitted these things could only see for themselves the amount of comfort I derive from their use, and could hear the words of appreciation that we say among ourselves, I feel quite sure they would say that their labor had not been in vain.
“If one of the boys who is a Scientist, had not told me of the work you are doing, I would not be able to extend to you my thanks; and if you are doing for others as for me, quietly and efficiently, I feel I owe you a tribute beyond the expression of thanks.
“I hope at some future day to procure a Science and Health. If this is your religion I want to know more about it.”
“Just a word of appreciation for the soft, wonderful, woolen knitted goods, I received some time ago. A soldier with such an equipment as you sent me is surely a happy man.
“The socks are not of the cumbersome, thick style; the sweater vest so neat and comfortable in comparison with others seen; the skullcap so comfortable at night; and wristlets and stormhood of the softest, nicest work I have ever seen.
“It is truly a pleasure to wear such equipment. It is just in line with everything else good that comes through Christian Science.”
That the work of the Comforts Forwarding Committee was doing much toward meeting the needs of the boys in this country; that it was touching their hearts and winning their appreciation; nay, more, that it was bringing to them big evidences of a divine, efficacious Love, was apparent. The silent influx of love expressed told more than words could say.
The individual responses to silent influence would have been a sufficiently gratifying recompense to the workers, but justice demanded in addition a more official recognition.
The following letter from one of the Christian Science War Relief Workers stationed near a camp tells an important story—a story typical of what took place in many government posts.
“As an expression of our gratitude for the help received from the Comforts Forwarding Committee (Christian Scientists) of Boston, we are sending the following experience as one of the many proofs we have had that your work was appreciated.
“When the camp was established here, our committee, together with other welfare organizations, commenced our work amongst the boys, but found very few who were interested at all in what we were trying to do for them. In fact, when the epidemic broke out here, we were told by the Post Commander that no welfare workers would be allowed in camp until the epidemic was over. These orders were very emphatic.
“Twelve days later a shipment of knitted garments, consisting of a sweater, helmet, pair of wristers and two pairs of socks for every man in the camp was received from your Committee. These garments were delivered to the Company Commander, and at noon of that day we were informed over the telephone that the Post Commander wished us to come out to the camp immediately, as he had never seen such a splendid array of knitted goods, and that while the men were all lined up in front of the Company office to receive the goods, he felt that we should see the goods for ourselves and be present at the distribution. Upon arrival at the camp we were met by the Post Commander and Company Commander and congratulated upon these goods.
“The men were then given the outfits and appreciated them very much, as the winter uniforms and overcoats had not been issued, and the nights were very cold.
“Since that time, even during the epidemic, we have been allowed to go anywhere in the camp and help many of the boys, who now knew that we were there to help them and not to preach to them. For months after this, and even yet, the boys will tell us how much Christian Science has done for them, and how they feel that these knitted garments saved many of them. To the men in the service here Christian Science has come to stand for that which helps and brings joy and comfort.”
In a newspaper published in a western city appeared one day the following article:
“They moved in very quietly. They didn't celebrate by tooting horns or throwing confetti. In fact they didn't say a word about it, but if you are doing any window shopping you will find them at 121 North First Street. The window display of well-made little garments holds the interest, and the neat sign on the unobtrusive gray cardboard is self-explanatory, ‘Comforts Forwarding Committee (Christian Scientists).’ You go in because you can't stay out. That expression, ‘Comforts Forwarding,’ is one of the most appealing things in a day's hunt for a story. Inside there are space and light and simplicity. A few feathery wild grasses for desk decoration, a flag on the wall, work everywhere, and bright-faced women, one of whom says with a smile, ‘It is joyful work.’ Somehow you seem to have sensed that ‘comforts forwarding’ must be joyful work—and now you know it. It is a labor of love.”
At the entrance to the workroom of the Comforts Forwarding Committee in one of the large cities, there were forty boxes, filled with cut garments to be made, each box bearing the name of the captain of a unit, and this reminder:
“As Christian Scientists, our garments should be garments of praise made in the spirit of holiness, so let perfection, not numbers, be our object.”
A thing is a thought made manifest; the value of an article is exactly the value of the thought behind it. Just so far as individual members of the Comforts Forwarding Committee lived and worked in the healing consciousness, so far every garment made carried with it the healing truth—the truth that destroys erroneous concepts of every name and nature, and sets the human understanding free.
It is not strange then, but supremely natural, that our friends in the medical profession began to see a great light. To the wonderful results in this direction, accomplished by the War Relief and Camp Welfare Committees, the labors of the women made no small addition. It was a medical officer who asked for a sweater vest to send to his son in another camp, and in return asked if he could not in some way help the Welfare Worker. Not long after, this same doctor requested that The Christian Science Monitor be placed on his desk daily. It was another member of the medical profession in the same camp who said, “You people do make the loveliest things,” and a third, to whom a sweater vest had been given, who, as he was leaving the post to return to his duties as Health Commissioner in one of our large cities, said he would always have a kind feeling for Christian Science and Christian Scientists, and that as Health Officer he knew he could always understand them better. From another physician came the happy statement that he never heard any criticism of Christian Science any more in the staff meetings; that, in fact, many kind remarks were made, and he was right then studying Mrs. Eddy's works.
It may be of interest to the field to know that the most advanced facilities were available for the Comforts Forwarding work. Not only did electric irons, electric sewing machines and knitting machines help to quicken the work, but when a detachment of men ordered overseas were found to be in need of “comforts” fifteen complete outfits were hurried to them by aeroplane. Nor was it a mere coincidence that the pilot of the plane was a devout Christian Scientist.
As long as the boys were “over here,” however much one deprecated the training camp experiences, there was still the consciousness that as compared with foreign service, they were still at home. The arms of the Mother-land were around them. The usual methods of communication were available; personal gifts, and even personal visits, possible. It was when they left for “over there” that the father and the mother awaited eagerly the first letter announcing their arrival; and how happily they noted that either before sailing or immediately on landing, their depleted outfits had been replenished by the Comforts Forwarding Committee. Sometimes gratitude to this Committee compelled a letter from the parents themselves. Of the many received from the boys, the following will serve as a sample:
“Somewhere in France.
“August 1, 1918.
“Dear Friends:
“This is the first opportunity I have had to thank you for the kind gifts I received from your Committee last February. The weather here is rather chilly at night, and as most of my work is done under cover of darkness, I cannot help appreciating the value of warm clothing.
“One of the ladies of your society was kind enough to call my attention to the 91st Psalm, and although I've had lots of spare time in which to investigate the benefits which she claimed were to be derived from reading it, I have not done so until today, much to my regret. There was in it a message of calm confidence and trust in a Being whom I had known but little in my childhood, and in whose existence I have not had the slightest faith as I grew older. But war is a great school, and I am considerably wiser today.
“I derived special comfort from the fifth and seventh verses, and they will no doubt be my guiding stars when I get at close quarters with old Fritz. So I wish to thank that kind lady most cordially for a good tip.
“I am with the 306th Machine Gun Battalion, Company B, and I am going to make it a point to visit your Committee in person as soon as I get back home, and thank the ladies for their ceaseless efforts in behalf of the young men who are just starting on their military careers.
“Trusting that this visit may be in the very near future, I am
“Respectfully yours.”
In the matter of individual distribution on the other side, our Canadian sisters naturally led the way, their work having commenced with the beginning of the war. Although their activities were quite distinct from those of the Comforts Forwarding Committee of the United States, the following account from Toronto shows the same animating spirit, proving again that Truth is one and indivisible, and unified in the qualities expressing it. It is a pleasure to incorporate here this incomplete story of what was accomplished by some of our neighbor Scientists:
“Our activity grew from an Overseas Box Committee organized by members of First and Third Churches of Christ, Scientist, Toronto, in the early part of the war, and which eventually became a very prominent activity of the Comforts Forwarding Committee, consisting of sending individual boxes of food and comforts to approximately one hundred soldiers a month. In this list were many American residents who had enlisted in the Canadian army. We sent our last shipment in October, 1918, to our full list of boys, for Christmas, numbering between three and four hundred. In acknowledgment of this work we continually received letters of gratitude, from boys not only in England and France, but far-away Russia; also from a group of five Belgian soldiers whose desperate need became known to a member of our Committee.
“A company of two hundred men for the Siberian Expeditionary Force were supplied, each with a sleeveless jacket and two pairs of socks, on ten days' notice, just before embarking. Another instance of our being able to answer a hurried call for comforts, was a request from the Navy League for seven sleeveless jackets or sweaters and helmets, for the officers on a British Merchant Marine just arrived at Halifax, and who were recovering from illness. This request came from the Navy League only after trying to secure these comforts from every other Committee supplying comforts for the soldiers. They were then told to try the Christian Scientists, as they seemed to be the only organization prepared to fill such a need after the armistice was signed. The League showed its appreciation of our quick response by dropping a donation in our contribution box. The following day they asked for supplies for two more sick officers, of these ‘splendid vests and helmets,’ and sent another contribution with the messenger who came for them.
“Our branches in Kitchener, London, Hamilton, Windsor and Oshawa helped us in such a splendid way, that our total output of garments, new and secondhand, amounted to approximately eight thousand five hundred, exclusive of our shipments of overseas boxes.”
Just as individual knitting and sewing on this side of the water gave way to the united activity of a great organization like the Comforts Forwarding Committee, so the nature and volume of the work demanded a strong, efficient, and in every sense cooperative organization on the other side. This was supplied by the Comité Français de la Christian Science pour les Secours de Guerre. The arrangement was ideal. Each Committee was in a measure a raison d'être for the other; each the other's incentive. Through the intervention of the Comité Français the French Minister of Commerce and the Minister of Blockade and Liberated Regions, in Paris, granted the necessary license for the landing of thirty tons monthly of our material; and in reply to a circular letter sent out by our French Committee to Prefects, Senators, Deputies, Mayors, etc., in the invaded regions, asking for definite information in regard to the needs of the people, had come scores of appealing and appreciative replies.
Shipping space must be found. The matter was taken up with the French High Commission in New York, but without immediate results. The French Embassy was approached, but while there was an evident desire to help, there seemed to be no way of overstepping the Commission which had authority over all transportation. During the discussion with the Embassy, there was present the captain of a fleet of twelve French mine-sweepers, who offered space on his boats provided the Ambassador approved of it. Approval was given, and as the boats were to sail from Boston, they were especially convenient for loading. Sailing not as a squadron, but at different times, two were scheduled to leave in December. On them were loaded one hundred fifty of the five hundred cases of clothing then ready. They put out to sea, proved unseaworthy, and in two or three days returned to port, to await an uncertain future. It was then that the French High Commission took up the matter, and granted space on some merchant vessels under French control. The shipments were as follows:
| 129 cases, February, 1919, via Steamer Hassel. |
| 125 cases, April, 1919, via West Elcasco. |
| 240 cases, May, 1919, via Caxambu. |
| 65 cases, July, 1919, via West Elcasco. |
Before the garments were packed in the cases at Boston, they were firmly tied in bundles of two, five or ten, each bundle bearing a label stating the nature, number and size of the garments. The same care, orderliness and system which characterized the packing, were exercised in the distribution of the clothing among the refugees. The cases were landed at La Pallice, Le Havre or Bordeaux, and generally forwarded, by railroad or canal, to Paris. There they were received by the Christian Science War Relief Committee, together with a descriptive list of the contents of each case. From Paris they were sent to the various Prefects, Deputies, Mayors, etc., for distribution. To avoid the confusion, loss and misfits consequent upon the opening of cases out of doors, none were forwarded from Paris until official guarantee of a suitable housing place had been received.
Several consignments were made to Monsieur Ringuier, Mayor of St. Quentin and Deputy of the Aisne. His circumscription comprised many villages, and the inhabitants were destitute of everything. By special arrangement the cases were sent directly from Le Havre to St. Quentin, where a large depot was prepared for their reception. Madame Ringuier herself, with a splendid corps of assistants, mostly women, prepared the garments for distribution. Numbered cards were issued, requiring each family to state of whom it was comprised, and what help had already been received from other sources. The following poster announcing a distribution in St. Quentin, was profusely and conspicuously placed.
ENGLISH TRANSLATION OF POSTER
Free Distribution
of
CHRISTIAN SCIENCE
“Under the auspices of Madame Ringuier, 5, rue Mariolle.
“The Committee Lyon-Saint-Quentin has received in three
days, May 26, 27, 28, 2,242 applications from families,
representing about 10,000 persons. The 2,242 numbered tickets
were remitted to Mme. Ringuier, Thursday, May 29, at the
time she was finishing the inventory of the cases destined to
the town of St. Quentin, the total of which amounted to
13,233 articles. The distribution will take place according to
series of 200 from the 16th to the 29th of June.
“There are many garments for girls, exactly 6,942 articles, which are classified according to ages: 1,774 dresses, 2,305 underdresses, 489 aprons, 1,256 drawers, 749 chemises, etc. This is the most important lot and it comprises many pretty things.
“On the other hand there are few garments for men. Out of the 3,791 articles, there are 3,108 pairs of socks, 524 sweaters, etc.
“For the women we have a lot of 1,075 articles: 105 matinees, 147 blankets and 463 pretty winter dressing gowns.
“For the boys there are 1,425 various articles.
“These figures show that we are obliged to give more to the cards where there are girls, thus reducing the share of the papas and mammas in order to make up the packages for the families where there are no girls. “We wish to state that the packages are made up according to the size of the family and following category:
“1st, Persons who have never received anything.
“2d, Those who have already received, and
“3d, Those who have already received from several charities.
“This goes to explain that the packages will not be as important for the families composed of many people.
“We have in reserve 100 magnificent layettes which will be distributed as births occur at the Maternity Ward of the Hotel Dieu.
“There are few shoes to distribute for we have sent the galoches with wooden soles to some of the villages instead of garments.
“All the pretty things, which are absolutely new, we owe to the generosity of the Christian Science ladies, whom Mme. Ringuier has thanked in the name of the population.
“Persons should keep their numbered tickets, which will serve for the drawing of the 15 sewing machines.
“The making of the packages is progressing satisfactorily and we can begin the distribution Monday, June 16, and continue every day from 4 to 6.30 p.m. until the 2,242 packages are exhausted.
“To avoid all pushing, we will distribute a series of 200 packages a day. As the prepared packages are piled up one above the other, we are obliged to follow in order. The first 75 numbers of the series must be presented between 4 and 5 p.m.; the following 75, between 5 and 6, and the last 50 between 6 and 6.30 p.m.
“In this way no time will be lost.
“NO PUSHING (Stand in line, please).
“ORDER OF THE DISTRIBUTION ACCORDING TO SERIES OF 200.
“Every Day from 4 to 6.30 p.m.
| “Monday | June 16 | Series | 1 | to | 200 |
| “Tuesday | June 17 | Series | 201 | to | 400 |
| “Wednesday | June 18 | Series | 401 | to | 600 |
| “Thursday | June 19 | Series | 601 | to | 800 |
| “Friday | June 20 | Series | 801 | to | 1000 |
| “Saturday | June 21 | Series | 1001 | to | 1200 |
| “Monday | June 23 | Series | 1201 | to | 1400 |
| “Tuesday | June 24 | Series | 1401 | to | 1600 |
| “Wednesday | June 25 | Series | 1601 | to | 1800 |
| “Thursday | June 26 | Series | 1801 | to | 2000 |
| “Friday | June 27 | Series | 2001 | to | 2242 |
"The drawing of the 15 sewing machines will take place Sunday, June 29, at 10 o'clock, under the peristyle of the theater. Only the members of the commissions will have access to the steps.
“The commission will be composed of Messrs. Ringuier, Tricotteaux and Charles Deschamps, Counsellors of the Arrondissements, and the persons who happen to have the cards bearing numbers 200, 400, 600, 800, 1000, 1200, 1400, 1600, 1800, 2000, 2200 are requested to join them as witnesses.
“The 15 winning numbers will be immediately posted up.”
This incident in St. Quentin, at which members of the Christian Science War Relief Committee were present, was typical of the dignified method of distribution of all the refugee garments of the Comforts Forwarding Committee; and it is interesting to note that even the poster announced that it was to be a distribution of Christian Science, although it is hardly to be supposed that the authors thereof realized the truth of the statement. It is evident that the loving, comforting thoughts of this Committee accompanied the garments.
It was the desire of the War Relief Committee to send the Comforts Forwarding articles where they were most needed. One such place was Nantes, the fifth largest city in France. Already burdened with its own poor, the distress and suffering were greatly increased by the large number of refugees allotted to it because of its size. In addition to many cases of clothing which were sent here and apportioned to the families where instant relief was needed, ten cases of uncut flannel were given to the Society for the Aid of Widows and Orphans. Headquarters were opened, and the women who could work came there and themselves made garments from the flannel—a bit of constructive work with value.
Another industry in which the material of the Comforts Forwarding Committee played its part, was that established by the Marquise de Lagrange for the women of Brittany. Desiring to interest the women in knitting, she had opened a little place, but was financially unable properly to equip it. With help given by the Christian Science War Relief Committee, it was possible to hire larger quarters and install machinery. Twelve cases of Comforts Forwarding yarn, real yarn, wool, such as could not then be bought in France, were donated, and a genuine industry started. The women were paid for their labor, and the output sent to Paris to be sold. This tricotage, open to all classes, has proved a special blessing to the many women whose social position and circumstances before the war, made it most difficult for them to adjust themselves to the only other means of livelihood open, to them. The Marquise herself paved the way by personally running a machine. This industry has come to stay, and although one can hardly forecast its future, as compared with the many little factories composed of a few hand machines installed under a canvas covering, in the midst of ruins where German prisoners have shoveled away the debris, it promises much; and its comforts seem destined to be forwarded indefinitely.
This account of overseas distribution is but a salesman's sample. Over one hundred and forty thousand new garments were sent through the Boston headquarters to the Committee in France, and placed with phenomenal care. The letters of acknowledgment which have been received from the beneficiaries are many and sincere. To read them is to obtain the truest definition of war. Though they tell of destruction, suffering and gaunt want, they are so appreciative, so redolent with gratitude, that the tear of grief is almost dissolved in that of joy. For the present we are compelled to let the few lines that follow speak for all:
From the Mayor of Ribemont, District of Saint-Quentin:
“In behalf of the necessitous population of Ribemont, the task of telling you how much the different articles, which you were kind enough to send to our commune, are appreciated, is an agreeable one.
“How many of these articles fill urgent needs, and how concerned are our unhappy people, having lost everything through the invasion of the enemy. Many of them have found absolutely nothing of what they possessed before the war, furniture, linen, clothes, kitchen utensils—everything has disappeared. Thus you see with what eager eyes each looks on what he can obtain through your generosity.
“Rest assured that the name of Christian Science will come to the lips of each one, as sentiments of kindness, mutual aid and solidarity are evoked. . . .”
From the Countess de Mareuil:
“I found your Committee's address in the parcels given me for the devastated village of Boullancourt, and I thank you with all my heart for your kindness.
“We had there an estate and a castle which are entirely destroyed, so that we cannot further help the 150 people of the little village. A dozen families have already come back, and during this cold weather are living in the ruins of our cellars, preferring to suffer anything rather than lose the chance to sow wheat in two months. Their love for the soil will save this little bit of France, and our own land for my three children. You can infer how much your generosity was needed. They will bless your name forever.
“It is awful for the race to suffer after having shed almost the last drop of blood, and your warm clothes will save more than one of these little fellows. . . .
“The boches stole our furniture (it was old and fine) before the place was destroyed; they cut our trees, also, so that we cannot help our poor peasants. . . . But all of us have suffered for France with a willing heart, and we thank God for the kind friends who have done so much for us. . . .”
The holocaust is over. The treaty of peace has been signed. The Comforts Forwarding Committee was a tender arm spontaneously held out to help a needy world. Its immediate purpose has been served and the organization dissolved. What did it accomplish? Measured by figures as follows:
| Total number of garments distributed by the Comforts Forwarding Committee from December 1, 1917, to May 1, 1919 | 1,223,798 |
| Note.—Of this quantity, 904,101 garments were distributed by the Boston Committee, while the remaining 319,692 articles were distributed by the local Committees direct. | |
| Included in the articles distributed by the Boston Committee were the following: | |
| Knitted goods and other comforts given to men in service | 191,848 |
| Double-faced eider down vests | 3,575 |
| Convalescent robes | 4,009 |
| New shoes given to Italian War Relief Committee | 1,151 |
| 500 cases new garments shipped to Le Comité Français de la Christian Science pour les Secours de Guerre | 140,095 |
| Old and new garments distributed by the Boston Committee through local Relief organizations (note list below) | 563,423 |
| Cases uncut outing flannel, including cut but unmade garments and other bulk material | 58 |
| Cases bulk yarn | 12 |
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Note.—Local Relief organizations referred to above: | |
Having read these figures, what do they tell us? Very little, since algebra cannot compute or alchemy resolve them into the true substance of which they are the human expression. The mission of Christian Science is to heal and redeem and what was accomplished through this new and united labor “knoweth no man.” It blessed not only those who have received but also those who have given, and each in proportion, not to the number of garments turned out, but to the clarity of the healing thought that lay behind them. This unique organization has ceased its outward activity and disbanded, but human ingenuity is powerless to nullify its invisible inspiration. That will continue to move forward through undivided space and uncounted time, carrying with it the comfort of the Christ-love and giving “the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness.”
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| War Relief Rooms, Edinburgh, Scotland | Christian Science Welfare House, 112 Eaton Square, London, England |
